Formed in 2002, Ever Stays Red quickly became fully committed to creating music with a purpose. They bought a small home in Phoenix and began writing their debut album, I’ll Tell the World. Shortly after releasing the record, they went touring throughout the nation, playing more than 250 shows, gaining respect and a loyal fan base throughout the US! The band’s bio states that, with proceeds from touring, the band funded a trip to Belo Horizonte, Brazil. There they performed nightly for thousands of young people, many of whom lived in the streets of the inner city. Over that twelve-day stretch of shows, the band witnessed first-hand the ability of music to transcend culture and creed, further solidifying their sense of calling.
Now the Arizona natives are releasing their first national record entitled, On the Brink of it All. The band, still relatively unheard of, through most parts of the states, is one that should never be overlooked. I was first introduced to the band shortly after their debut was released in 2003 at Joshua Fest in Northern California. Since then, I’ve closely followed their music as they’ve matured into one of the best indie pop/rock bands in the west.
Dustin Carlson’s distinct vocals lead the band to uncharted territory in music, giving these guys a slight advantage over typical indie pop/rock bands. Dustin’s brother Josh gives us the beats, while friends Zach Anderson, guitars/vocals, and Erik Brunner, bass, complete the back-end of the band.
Kicking off the album is an intro that dives directly into the energetic title track, “On the Brink of it All.” Next is “To Shine for You” a song about not holding back and asking God to lend His strength… “For all the times I felt too scared to try lend me strength tonight, and everything that holds me back inside, just let go. These are the moments that make or break, what we become, and I just want to shine for You.” Following is the intriguing “Can’t Explain.” The first verse sings, “When You fell You took the fall for everything, I had ever done. So help me never forget just how beautiful this sky can be, when the dark with all its grays has gone away. To show off all that blue a sign of life time will stand still to remember You for everything.” While the song uses signature song writing, deciphering the message can reveal a new perspective on a real truth. “Run” and “Love So Loud” bring the tempo back before going into “Bright Eyes” another lyrically rich track. “Life in the Fire,” the return of “Glorious,” previously found their debut, “Say What You Will” and “Look to the Hills” bring us to the closing with “Letters.”
On the Brink of it All is filled with rich lyrics, impressive, warm melodies, and heart, which capsulate this album into a very enjoyable listen. Dubbed for success, Ever Stays Red has yet again impressed me with their indie pop/rock tunes. Moreover, they have a great passion for the lost and are playing their part in God’s plan.
I highly recommend this to anyone looking for something interesting and new. Ever Stays Red is a band that is vocally unique, giving them an upper hand in their genre. Check them out and buy On the Brink of it All! You’ll like it!
Article by Jeremy Koering, Editor / Photographer / General Writing
